Dank called the bill an “open-ended piece of legislation” that had virtually no controls and no limits on how much it was going to cost.

“That borders on being absurd,” Dank said. “If you want a socialistic style of government, keep voting for this.”

Bingman said he hasn’t given up hope on the bill.

“That happens a lot in the House,” Bingman said of Senate bills being defeated.

Bingman said he hopes the bill will be brought up again and House members will change their minds and support it.

Alex Weintz, spokesman for Gov. Mary Fallin, said the governor generally supports looking at ways to encourage more degree and certificate completions, especially in high-need areas that support Oklahoma’s major industries.

“She is working with the Legislature, the education community and private businesses in support of that goal,” Weintz said. “This bill may be reconsidered later this week, but the governor will continue to support workforce improvements with or without this legislation.”

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